Reading Response

To understand the concept of "good design," a few readings and videos were assigned for homework. 

The three writings in Reading 1 sought to define the word “design.” Each tried to give a better understanding of the word, seeing as though it has such a broad meaning. 

In the first reading, design was defined as “a process for making things right.” I had not previously thought of design in this way, but I came back to this idea throughout the project. The speakers in the Hallmark Lecture Series, for instance, both said that they continually redesigned their vision as problems with budget and materials arose. Design is the solution to a problem. 

The second reading helped to define the design field. Since the word “design” is applied to so many professions, that it loses a clear meaning.

Lastly, the third reading gave multiple short answers to the question, “What is good design?” The answers included design as an evolution, a social process, a game, and applied creativity

All of these readings gave me a better understanding of the design world. I feel that I can clearly relate to other what my major is, what design is and why I love design. Not only was it very informative, but the assignment was really enjoyable.

The First Project

This semester I begin my study of Graphic Design at the University of Kansas. Here is the first assignment:

In this first project, the student will learn what makes good design. By attending class lectures, reading and watching videos, he or she will understand the answer to this question. The student will then use their knowledge to pick out a well-designed item and showcase its qualities of good design in a poster. An accompanying process notebook will document the thought and design process of the individual.